Prescription discount program starts in Ascension Parish

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Starting Monday, residents in Ascension Parish can start saving money on their prescription drugs. The parish has joined a prescription drug discount card program, sponsored by the National Association of Counties, or NACo.

The program is geared towards people who are uninsured, those who don't have insurance, or those who don't have coverage for certain drugs under their insurance. Residents can save up to 22 percent on prescriptions.

There is no cost to sign up, and the parish does not have to pay anything to participate. The costs for prescriptions are negotiated between participating pharmacies and CVS Caremark, a partner company working with NACo and the program.

Pharmacies are not required to participate. Most big chain stores have agreed to, but some locally-owned stores have opted out. Owners said they are concerned about potentially losing money and customers. Some fear if CVS Caremark gets information about their customers, the company will try to draw customers to CVS stores.

Any Ascension Parish resident, regardless of age or income, can sign up. Cards have been put in about 20 participating pharmacies.